February 27, 2013 The Honorable Andrew Maynard The Honorable Antonio Guerrera Co-Chairpersons, Transportation Committee Legislative Office Building Hartford, CT 06106-1591Re: SUPPORT for Distracted Driving Enforcement Bills HB 5248, HB 5545, HB 5550 and SB 637 Dear Chairmen Maynard and Guerrera: Bike Walk Connecticut writes to SUPPORT distracted driving enforcement bills HB 5248, HB 5545, HB 5550 and SB 637. Distracted drivers threaten the safety and property of everyone who ventures onto the roadways, but none more so than travelers who are not surrounded by two tons of steel. As the statewide advocate for the rights of bicyclists and pedestrians, Bike Walk Connecticut is keenly aware of the dangers posed by drivers who take their attention off the road—especially to illegally operate a cell phone. Every month, if not every week, news accounts report the death or serious injury of yet another pedestrian or cyclist who was struck by a motor vehicle, many of which incidents are attributable to distracted driving. We believe these bills will give police officers the means to enforce laws intended to prevent distracted driving, which are currently flouted to an astonishing degree—quite likely because there are no clear and certain penalties for doing so. We urge you to vote in favor enforcing distracted driving laws and bills HB 5248, HB 5545, HB 5550 and SB 637. Thank you for considering our views. Sincerely, Kelly Kennedy, Executive Director Bike Walk Connecticut

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